Tracial algebras and an embedding theorem

We prove that every positive trace on a countably generated ∗-algebra can be approximated by positive traces on algebras of generic matrices. This implies that every countably generated tracial ∗-algebra can be embedded into a metric ultraproduct of generic matrix algebras. As a particular consequence, every finite von Neumann algebra with separable pre-dual can be embedded into an ultraproduct of tracial ∗-algebras, which as ∗-algebras embed into a matrix-ring over a commutative algebra. © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved